Rise or Fall

by Heiress Mellie

First Class: Charles and Erik have accepted their roles as guardians and headmasters over the young mutants but there is still work to be done for the greater than typical family. This is a familial and discipline, including spanking, centered fiction.

123. Chapter 123 Deck the Halls

X-Men-First Class: Rise or Fall

Chapter One Hundred Twenty Three

Author's Word: Before any single one of you dare to point out your grievances about how long it takes to get chapters up, I want to let loose a few of mine. First, I had to deal with the satellite dish installer needing some kind of proof that it was okay to drill and when I finally provided him with that proof, I still couldn't write. Why? While I'm at my laptop, my sister chose to babble into my ear about how she is having trouble with her own writing and it would have been wrong to tell her to leave me alone for some flipping reason. Then the uncle text messaged me to get the family to go visit Grandma, who misses us dearly. Okay, great, we did that. But every time I found a spare moment, someone at work chose to call off leaving me to pick up their slack. Several other things happened, but I'm barely functional enough to remember any of it. So, please, just enjoy and review already.

At the knock to her metallic door, Kerstin selected the button on the mini panel made onto her desk to slide it open.

Pink box extended, Trick entered with a deep bow. "Top of the day to you, lassie."

"Hi," she smiled, getting up. "I love the way you do that."

"Provide baked goods?"

"No, that you always knock despite the fact that walls are nothing but thick air for you."

"Mutation is not entitlement to rudeness," Trick stated. He held the box out to her again. "For you."

"Thanks." She accepted it then got a look at its contents and positively beamed. "Cinnamon raisin bagels." She gave the box a careful squeeze. "You're too wonderful for existence."

"Bah," he waved off, taking a seat in a nearby plush chair, "'twas my pleasure. More than you know. I acquired them from my parents' rival bakery."

"Vicious," Kerstin commented lightheartedly.

Eyes going somber, he asked, "You doing alright?"

"I retained the least amount of damage," she reminded glibly. "What about… others involved?"

"Leon is as good as new and Alex will be there soon enough." He bent forward, eying her closer. "You miss him?"

"More than I care to admit," the girl responded. "We were actually going somewhere and then… everything I cared about had to be ripped in half. Typical."

Trick got up, going to touch a hand to her thin shoulder. "I know what you're feeling, lovely. Doesn't matter the number of songs or the packed houses night after night. I constantly think about who I wish I still had at my side." He dipped his head to better look at her. "It gets better." She nodded. "I have to be off. I have quite a load of rehearsal time to get in for the hospital's performance."

"I'm so glad you're involved with that," she said.

"It's all for the wee ones. So if I don't see you," he lowered, giving her a hug, "have a very merry Christmas, Kerstin."

"Merry Christmas to you, too," she returned, leaning on his shoulder a moment. "And thank you."

On his way up, Trick stopped off in the laboratory. "Dr. Banner."

The dark haired scientist stepped over to him. "Trick. Hang around here long enough and Steve's liable to make an agent out of you."

"Speaking of, is he about?"

"No. Believe it or not, he's actually getting some personal time in. Anything I can help you with?"

Trick's expression turned a little uncertain. "I have a favor to ask of him."

IIIIIII

Oh the weather outside is frightful

But the fire is so delightful

Convinced the dream state had him trapped, even as his eyelids peeled apart, Alex felt every breath leave him. When the blurs formed the picture perfect face of the redhead above him, he could offer no words but continued to listen to hers.

And since we've no place to go

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow

She finished into his ear, "Let it snow…"

Discovering a whole new zest, Alex jumped up in bed, grabbing hold of her. "Holly." He pressed a hand against her back and clutched her tighter. "Tell me this is real."

Knowing one sure way to give him the proof he desired, she gripped the sides of his face between her hands and seized control over his lips.

After a great many seconds, she pulled back just far enough to touch noses with him. "Flesh and bone, stud."

His hands went to her waist to lock her in place. "What are you doing here?"

"My school also practices Christmas vacation." She shifted her head, spilling long red hair entirely over one shoulder. "Startling, isn't it? Not to mention the fact that my dear sweet little niece sent up a distress call telling me of your peril. In my haste, though, I forgot to pack my nurse uniform." She pretended to sulk. "Mad at me?"

Countenance completely changing all at once, Alex stood from the bed facing away from her. "Holly, you need to know," he slowly turned back, "I was seeing someone else. Not even a week ago."

Stretched out and never losing eye contact during the confession, she replied knowingly, "The blonde with the evil parents and sicko stalker?"

Alex exhaled through the nose. "Guess Jas already filled you in."

"She and I don't really do secrets, which is why I about throttled my brother for neglecting to tell me about his knife incident." She got up, going to put her hands to his chest. "Alex, believe me. I've had my own share of bad dates. But us? We're above awkwardness, rationalizing. Right?"

"Right," he agreed with a smile. "Come here." He led her back to the bed. "The weather outside is frightful."

Happily joining him under the covers, Holly nestled in his arms.

IIIIIII

Brown tray lifted up and over her head, the waitress brought the three gentlemen their selected drinks. She placed a tall mug of frothy beer in front of the gruff brunette, an icy cola for the long haired one, and a scotch and soda for the one with a military trim. They each tipped her five dollars, clearly making her day as she giddily sauntered off.

Steve said, "I really do appreciate you fellows meeting with me this way."

Logan jabbed a thumb his brother's direction. "He's meetin' with ya. I just wanted the high quality booze." He took a swig from his mug.

Sticking a napkin to the foam mustache the act left behind, Victor looked at Steve. "Let's cut to the chase. We all know this has nothin' to do with old times."

"Unfortunately." Steve stirred his drinking, trying to think where to begin. "I know I'm putting you in an uncomfortable position."

"You can't win this either way it goes, Steve," Victor informed bluntly. "You're not the Cap here anymore. We're on a whole new team now. Ya know that's how we operate."

"Going where you're needed and doing what you must," Steve recounted. "Yes, I remember." He glanced back and forth between them. "I take it that means you find me in the wrong."

"It means you fucked up," stated Logan. "Don't get us wrong because we get your reasons. But if any one of those kids had died that night…"

"I know, I know," Steve assured. "Please believe me. I know after what Erik's gone through, this must feel like a deep stab wound. But I had to do what was best for Kerstin. Can you imagine being lied to by your own mother for years? Then having to hide your parentage every single day of your life? It's truly admirable that she's such a well-adjusted young lady."

Victor said, "We know Trick's been by to see her. We hate what that piece of shit almost did to her. It's close to home, let me tell ya. But Alex left with the most scars and he never saw a lick of it comin'."

Steve's eyes glistened with sorrow. "How is he? All of them?"

Logan said with some resemblance of humor, "One guess which one's missin' ya the most."

"Frank," Steve surmised with a breathy smile then returned to seriousness. "I know Erik wants nothing to do with me at the moment, but should I hear anything further regarding the government and," he grew wary of their surroundings, "your unique capabilities, will you let me contact you?"

Logan nodded. "'Preciate it."

Victor added, "And I may see my way to havin' a word with Magneto. But keep in mind, at the end of the day he and Charles are the ones in charge."

Steve nodded at them now.

IIIIIII

Currently positioned on his head against one wall, Leon responded with, "Who is it?" to the knock on his door.

"May I come in?"

Recognizing the extremely distinct British accent, Leon tumbled right over. "Ugh!"

An alarmed Charles stepped right in at that. "Are you alright?"

"Fine, simply lost my," he edged away with his back to his bed, "balance for a moment. May I help you, Professor? Sir?"

Trying to ignore the waves of uneasiness the young man emitted his way, Charles approached him with one hand out. "I have something for you."

Leon extended his hand in turn and watched as the tiny baby penguin dropped into his hand. "Very whimsical."

Charles smiled. "It's a bit of a tradition in our home. An ornament for every new family member."

Leon touched two fingers to the teeny bird. "Thank you."

"You're most welcome." Charles looked around the moderately decorated bedroom and his eyes settled on the action figures lined up across the top of the dresser. "Very interesting collection."

Leon got to his feet. "You think I suffer from stunted growth due to undergoing supreme trauma at such an early age."

Charles turned to him, one eyebrow raised. "I was actually thinking you should be cautious Frank and Scott don't slip in to try to play with them."

"…I'm sorry." Leon dropped to a seat on the side of his mattress.

The Professor squatted before him. "Leon, I'm no more out to violate your mind than you are to use your shifting powers to steal my wallet. I wish you would trust that."

The boy rubbed one arm. "I forgot to say thank you. Headmaster Lehnsherr told me- he said you helped me sleep the other night."

"It was my pleasure," Charles assured him. "If you're ever having those troubles, my door is open."

Leon pulled his knees to his chest and hugged them. "I'll remember that."

Standing fully, Charles said, "I'll see you a bit later then."

Leon nodded and the man turned to leave out. Looking into his palm, the teenager eyed the little penguin again.

IIIIIII

The pleasant melody that filled the room courtesy of long fingers to strings became abruptly interrupted by sudden weight latching on forcefully to the musician's back.

"Cody!" Sean attempted to shake him off. "Stop it."

Covering his eyes, Cody requested, "Come play with me."

"I—" Sean groaned, removing one of the small hands from his face. "I can't right now. Trick asked me to take part in his benefit. I really need to practice."

Cody fell over dramatically to his side in front of him. "You always have to practice. Can't ya play with me instead of that thing for a while?"

Annoyed, Sean reiterated, "Not now, Cody."

Lips poking forward, Cody brought his knees in and started moaning and sobbing into them.

"Oh come on…" Sean propped the guitar up along his desk. "You're not even crying." He picked him up to sit on his lap. "Cut it out, you big phony." When the display only continued, prodded the short arms away. "Keep it up and I'm gonna tickle you." He started in on the stomach. "I'm gonna tickle you."

Against his will, Cody burst into resounding giggles. "Hey, quit it!" He bent the tips of his fingers and pretended to claw at the teenager.

"Oh look at Wolverine Jr." He lifted the smaller boy up to hover slightly over his head. "Does he know you use your powers to try to beat up people?"

"Who do ya think taught me how?" Cody responded matter-of-factly.

"Well, you can't use 'em on your big brother." Sean rested him on his lap again. "It's a rule."

Cody smiled, winding arms around his neck. "You really wanna be my big brother?"

"What do you mean wanna be? I am," Sean informed.

"But…" Cody looked confused. "I thought ya had to be a Charles Kid or an Erik Kid to get a brother or sister."

"Hey, we're all X-Kids and that's all that counts." Sean reclined in his chair. "I'll even make a deal with you. If you stay still and listen to me practice for a few more minutes, I'll play with you and show you a few chords."

Cody's eyes brightened. "Really?"

Sean gently placed him on the floor. "Gonna be good?"

Cody drew an invisible X over his heart.

IIIIIII

"Your turn," Holly signaled from where she laid out underneath him.

"Okay." Alex took a moment to think of one. "Have you gotten drunk in the last seven days?"

"Nooooo," she smiled coyly, "Just the last ten. Am I still in trouble?"

"Yep." Alex gave her a strong kiss then said, "Your turn."

"Have you had any impure thoughts starring me at night?"

"And day," he answered.

Holly arched her head back to reconnect with his lips and nipped his bottom lip at the end. "That was for not calling me in the same hour you were hurt."

"I was unconscious."

She caressed his cheek. "I can leave you in an even deeper sleep then bring you right back."

He said into her ear, "Maybe I wouldn't want to come back."

"Auntie!"

Alex leapt back against his headboard and Holly hopped up from the bed, smoothing out her sweater.

Jasmine came in, looking back and forth between them impishly. "I knew you'd be in here." She folded hands behind her back. "Daddy's home."

Gasping in delight, Holly hurried off for downstairs.

At her prolonged look, Alex inquired, "What?"

Coming over, Jasmine leaned forward over the bed. "There's a limit on free samples you know. Eventually you have to buy the cow."

Alex pointed outward. "Go play before I wash your mouth out."

"Anything you say," Jasmine strolled towards the door then tacked on over her shoulder, "Uncle Alex." She fled from the room before he could get up.

IIIIIII

Passing the open study, Erik stopped off in the doorway to observe the unusually sullen one behind the desk.

"Peculiar." He walked in, leaving a hand on top of the head of chestnut brown. "I see my Lab Rat, but I don't see a smile. So, what did you do? Make a slip and call Emma fat?"

Charles replied, "Actually, she finds the prospect of weight gain quite comforting." At the look of reaction, he said, "Do not ask me to explain the psyche of an expecting telepath… or a teenage boy for all that matter."

Taking a seat on the edge of the desk, Erik deduced, "One Mr. Osaka."

"Brother," Charles looked up at him, "how did you handle it when Hank and Sean felt off put by you?"

Humor glinted on the older man's features. "You mean when Hank wouldn't trust me as far as he could throw me and Seanie declared me the mutated boogey man?"

"Well, yes."

"First of all, it was not my goal to seek their camaraderie. I was here to act as protector and disciplinarian. I also offered them guidance where I could and eventually, things changed for the better." Erik gave him a certain glance. "I know you process things differently than I, Charles. You want to personally flog yourself for every tear and adorable pout but you have to do right by them first and let the rest fall into place in due time."

With a light sigh, Charles rested his cheek on Erik's right knee cap. "Am I whining?"

"A little," Erik rubbed his upper back, "but it's alright when you do it with me- most of the time."

"Let's take a glimpse at your elephant in the room, shall we?" Charles sat up straight again. "The social is tomorrow, isn't it?"

Erik let off a small sigh. "That it is."

"Have you decided if you want to take Becky?"

"Of course I do," Erik admitted, getting up. He walked in a short circle before facing the younger man again. "What am I to do, Charles? Stand before God and say, "Guess who's back"?"

"I'm fairly certain He'll know ahead of time," Charles quipped.

Erik shot him a dark look. "Do you really think I'm in a laughing mood?"

Charles countered, "Personally, I don't find it at all funny that my brother considers himself the epitome of all evil. Erik," he got up to get closer to him, "we both know it matters not if you're in the safety of our mansion or standing in the middle of the Temple. If He wants you, He will seek you out."

Erik ran a fatigued hand down his face. Undoubtedly, the whale would devour him whole sooner or later.

IIIIIII

Circling the rim of her steaming mug with a gloved finger, Jasmine observed while Frank piled together an assortment of snow. The great big white lump could lead to anything from a snowman to an igloo depending on the boy's mood.

"I think my aunt really loves kissing Alex."

"Hope she got her shots first," Frank commented, rolling together a section of snow.

"But I don't think there's anything better than being kissed," the girl put forth next. "Have you ever seen the way Hank just pulls Raven right in close when they do it?"

"Took him long enough, trust me."

Jasmine placed her mug down on a step so that she could stand. "I've seen Logan totally sneak up on Kayla," she inched over, squeezing him from behind, "and grab her like this. Then he'll just—"

"Jas, gross," Frank shot down. "Do you mind? Not trying to picture old fogy love right now."

Letting go of him, she tucked a few strands of caramel blonde behind her ear. "What's wrong?"

Frank sighed. "It's Mom. Every time I talk to her she goes on and on about Linny and what he's getting into with this missionary stuff. Now here, on top of dealing with Alex the Great, that wuss moved in."

Jasmine folded her arms, giving him a cross look. "Leon could have gotten killed going to help Alex. If you call that a wuss, all men should try to be one."

"Not you, too, Jazzy," Frank protested, turning to face her. "You really buy into this guy?"

Jasmine threw her head back in dismay. "Why does everybody have to be an enemy with you?"

"Look," he came back with, "I just don't like how Cap is out because he didn't tell the truth for a good reason, but this complete liar is living with us?"

"It is kind of unfair," Jasmine had to admit. "But you know how grown people are. They fight, decide they don't want to work it out, and we just have to deal with it."

"Sure, but let us kids fight about anything under the clear blue sky." Frank jammed his hands into his coat pockets. "Then it's spankin' time."

"That goes out the window when you get old." Jasmine looked towards they house. "They probably don't even remember what it feels like anymore."

"Lucky," Frank grumbled mildly.

IIIIIII

Still occasionally overwhelmed by the massive walk-in closet her quarters offered, Kayla hung up the freshly pressed slacks on her husband's side of the space. The Indian woman failed to notice the pair of strong arms coming at her until they successfully coiled at her waist.

"Logan," she could not help squealing, "can't you see I'm in the middle of something here?"

"So am I," he informed as his lips started up her neck. "Guess what your man got you."

Kayla reached a hand back to go into his hair. "What did my man get me?" She gasped when he stuck the two pieces of identical paper in front of her face. "West Side Story? We haven't seen that since it opened."

Before she could even touch them, Logan yanked back the tickets. "If ya want 'em," he brought his hands behind his back then held them up, now empty, "ya gotta search me."

Provocative expression instantly covering her face, Kayla made purposeful steps towards him while he ever slowly inched away. Taking hold of the front of his jacket, she got the leather garment off quickly. Lying back on their bed, Logan remained still for her to lower down on top of him. She kissed the tattooed images of her children that covered each of his shoulders then moved on to his awaiting lips.

"Ma, Daddy!"

Breaking away from his wife for one moment, Logan shouted towards the entrance, "They moved back to Canada!"

Nonetheless, Cody zipped in, unbothered as he absorbed the sight of them. "How come y'all are always doin' that?"

"You'll learn soon enough," Logan assured him.

"Not that soon," Kayla tacked on, sitting up from him.

Cody ran over, flipping into bed with them. "I love it here. Know what Sean told me? He says we're brothers and Ma didn't even birth him."

Kayla smiled, stroking his hair. "There's no need for that here. Maya loves you that way, too you know."

"Oh I know," the boy said, reclining against her arm. "Smiley's the best and she's good for homework and weapons trainin' and makin' puppets out of our socks. But I love ridin' Seanie's shoulders; he's almost as tall as Uncle Vic. And he knows how to tell scary stories and play guitar."

"Yep," Logan used his toe to give Cody a nudge, "Red's a good pick for bros around here. He'll keep ya in line, too."

Cody crawled over to stretch out on his father's stomach. "Like Uncle Vic does to you?"

"Nope." Logan pressed a hand to the young one's back. "Sean ain't near mean enough for that."

IIIIIII

Hesitant fingers laced together, the girl in the brown pleated skirt and yellow V-neck top made her way into Eye Spy.

"Hey, Glim," Victor acknowledged without turning away from his numerous monitors.

Unsure of her words at first, Cordelia began with, "Have you ever noticed how the holidays offer a veritable wealth of dating possibilities?"

Spinning right around in his chair, Victor sent her a chilling sharp look. "Who is he?" He jumped to his feet, pumping a fist. "Ohhh this little punk better be some kind of golden choir boy to be sniffin' around one of my girls."

Realizing, the teenager quickly reassured, "No, no, it isn't me. It's never me…" She shook her head of that. "I was actually referring to you and… Adrienne."

"Oh," Victor understood, one hand going back to rub at his neck briefly

"I heard about the pictures she sent you. Have you heard from her at all since then?"

"No," Victor answered honestly. "Isn't she comin' in for Christmas?"

The girl replied despondently, "I don't know."

Victor looked at her closely. "Do you want her to?"

Cordelia countered softly, "Do you?"

"Cor, I…" Victor trailed a moment. "I didn't even think you were too keen on that."

She shrugged lightly. "X-Males tend to make my sisters better, happier." Cordelia folded her arms tightly. "I only wish I could do that. For any of them."

Victor put his hands to her arms and offered a gentle squeeze. "Sometimes when folks are dealin' with their own battles, they lose sight of things. Even of what's most important to 'em. Try to be patient with Adrienne. It may just payoff."

Cordelia's blue eyes peeked up at him. "Okay." She stepped back to leave out.

Retaking his seat, Victor slid out the little drawer underneath the panel. In the middle of a mess of papers, he retrieved the photograph. Holding it near to his face, he eyed the captured pair fixedly.

IIIIIII

White bear clutched against her chest, Becky held onto one paw, twirling them about in a slow rhythm on her toes. From the night stand, the snow globe provided them with its entrancing melody.

Coming to her doorway, Erik remained in place to watch her for a few seconds before entering fully. He wordlessly swept her up into his arms and moved in an impromptu manner about the room with her. A contented Becky nestled under his chin.

When the music ended, Erik lowered onto the bed and propped up against the headboard.

"You know," he held her closer, "your father is an absolute scatter-brain."

She giggled and looked up. "What?"

"With all that's taken place of late, I forgot to mention something to you. I met a little boy about your age outside the barber shop one day and he gave me a flier. About a social gathering taking place at his temple."

The little girl grew intrigued. "Here in Westchester?"

"Yes," Erik replied. "Tomorrow in the early evening actually. Did you- would you be interested in going?"

"Oh yes, Papa," she nodded eagerly.

"Are you sure? Because you do not have to if you really don't want to."

"But I do want to," Becky insisted. "Oh please, Papa. I don't think I've ever even seen a real temple before."

"Well, then… that's all settled then." Erik gave her a small smile. "I was also thinking we might bring Seanie along. I attended church services with him not long ago. He might get a little thrill out of it."

"Okay, great!"

"For now though," bringing the covers back, Erik situated her on the mattress comfortably, "it's time to sleep." He tucked the blankets in around her then brought his cheek towards her for a kiss.

Becky pecked the spot then hugged him around the neck. "Thank you, Papa."

Erik wound arms around her in turn. Laying her back down, he started in on a lullaby. Even as the glowing face drifted off, he continued the tune.

IIIIIII

When the room grew all too silent, even considering the typical behavior of his present company, Alex turned away from jotting down plans for his regiment.

"What?" he inquired of his all too innocence oozing comrade.

Leon stated, "One door closes and another reopens."

Alex countered glibly, "Who says it ever shut in the first place?"

"So you're…" Leon whirled a pencil between his fingers. "…Special friends?"

"Yeah, we are," Alex answered matter-of-factly. "But not like that." Putting his notebook down, he got up and walked towards the dresser. "With most chicks, they have too much heavy stuff going on at once. Then they expect us to know exactly what's wrong, what to say, what not to say, and when we don't it's the end of the world. As if they are just looking for something else to cry about. I've carried a chip of my own for too long to deal with all that. But Holly is all cool at all times."

Leon nodded. "And it also doesn't hurt that she's most likely quite often mistaken for a lingerie model."

Alex pointed at him and smirked. "Watch it." He then spotted the little figurine on the night stand. "Charles give you that?"

Leon looked over at the penguin. "Yeah, explained the little tradition behind it."

"You know," Alex walked back over, "part of that tradition requires putting all ornaments on the tree." He squatted beside the bed. "Believe it or not, my dad and I used to bump heads when I first got here. If you don't give someone a chance, you could be missing out on a pretty great relationship."

"Very poetic."

"No, that's Hank's department- among many." Alex picked up the notebook and gave the other teen a whack to the bottom with it. "Think about it, genius." He retook his spot on the floor and started to write again.

IIIIIII

Follow me in merry measure,

Fa la la la la, la la la la.

While I tell of Yule tide treasure,

Fa la la la la, la la la la.

With Trick positioned at the piano providing the instrumental portion, the female Hughes continuously spun around the tree as they sang.

Fast away the old year passes,

Fa la la la la, la la la la.

Hail the new, ye lads and lasses,

Fa la la la la, la la la la.

Sing we joyous, all together,

Fa la la la la, la la la la.

Heedless of the wind and weather,

Fa la la la la, la la la la.

Trick played a lengthy last note on the keys as he rang out, "'Tis the time for bed, ye lads and lasses. Fa la la la la, la la la la!"

Jasmine put hands on her hips. "Daddy, what have we said about adding verses?"

Holly laughed, holding onto her niece's hand to give her one final turn. "Go on, flower. I'll be right up."

"Okay, Auntie." Jasmine went around the piano to hug her father. "Night, Daddy. I love you."

"I love you, too," Trick returned. "Night night, Precious."

As Jasmine left out, Holly joined her brother on the bench. "Paris, Galway, or in the middle of a quaint little town just outside the big city. It doesn't matter where. Christmas for me is anywhere you two are."

Trick positioned an arm around her shoulders to bring her in near. "Certain you don't mean three?"

"Dangerously subtle, big brother." Holly emitted a guilty hilarity despite. "Alex is not the standard temp guy I've run into at school. He doesn't show it constantly, but there's so much to him. And he cares about me. I'm glad I can be here for him after that horrible ordeal."

Not wanting to, Trick still brought up, "He wasn't alone in that suffering, Hol. He was close to getting serious with another lass. One who isn't entirely over it yet."

Holly twisted to better face him. "He's confided this to you?"

Trick's eyes darted about briefly and he cleared his throat. "I've… I've been by to see her on and off."

A sardonic laugh echoed from her chest. "So am I to understand that my own brother is rooting for the other team?"

"Of course not. I've believed since you met that you and Alex are right for each other. I only think it's best that he settle things with her before the two of you—"

"What?" She interjected in jest. "Dare to have fun? Drown out all noise around us? I know we come off as for-the-occasion lust kittens, but at least we're able to go on when we lose sight of each other."

"Hmmm," he squinted out of one eye at her, "was that a clever jab at me?"

"At her to be precise, but in the spirit of the season, I'd rather discuss something pleasant."

Trick then raised, "Such as… you joining me in the Children's Hospital benefit."

Holly pretended to maul on it, gazing upward. "Appear alongside the grand pioneer of music known as Patrick Hughes," she looked at him again, "Wouldn't miss it for the world." With his smile, she took in just how paler his features seemed. "Patty, are you feeling well?" She felt around his cheeks and forehead.

"Uh, fighting off a bug," he said. "You know how it is. Constantly surrounded by people, not to mention wee ones. The germs have germs."

"And yet the show must go on," Holly stated knowingly. "Why don't you have an early lay down tonight? I'll bring you some soup to smother this thing before it makes its way to your throat."

"You're too good to me, Jolly." He got up but glanced down at her once more. "I meant what I said. You and Alex, no pressure mind you, but…" He crossed his fingers as he walked out.

Holly gazed after her brother pleasantly then stood to go whip up a tasty healing solution.

IIIIIII

The massive yawn she started to release got immediately replaced by a gasp when she entered the kitchen.

Leon's only response was, "You even utter like a Bostonian." He glanced away from watching his coffee brew. "Now say, "Why I never"."

"I never saw you leave your room without a great deal of cattle prodding." A bathrobe adorned Cordelia sat at the kitchen island.

"Ever notice there's really no safe hour around here?" Leon mentioned casually. "After nine, there's non-stop children roaming about and before, it's like all grownups are powered by sunrise. Such as Private Howlett here," Leon gazed out of a window to where the man chopped wood out back, "who hates me, by the way."

A smile quirked at her lips. "Why would he hate you?"

"Because," Leon turned back, "I don't think he's cool." She laughed softly. "Now, why're you up?"

"Trouble sleeping lately."

"Okay, this I have to hear because a rich girl clearly saddened at Christmastime makes my heart bleed," he poured himself a cup of his finished coffee, "with laughter."

Cordelia informed pointedly, "My family's been on my mind, okay?"

"Enough to disrupt your sleep? Why?" He took a sip of coffee. "Your sister seems wonderful."

"Now she does," Cordelia mumbled, taking a banana from the bowl. "And don't mistake me. She really does try now. But we have an older sister, who loves bringing her down and an older brother Em always has to prop up."

"Why does he need propping up?"

"Basically," Cordelia simplified, "he does something blatantly stupid, Daddy tells him just how blatantly stupid it was, and off he goes to cry to Em."

Leon placed his half-done mug down. "And your mother…?"

"Distracted by other things." The girl's flawless blue eyes seemed to freeze over. "Which is why she died over the summer."

Not needing her to fill in any blank spaces, Leon formed a disapproving countenance. "No insult intended but I have no sympathy for such a thing. Especially for those who have no reason whatsoever to do something like that."

Cordelia nodded. "Have you ever thought about…?"

"No," Leon answered promptly. "Partly because it would make certain people too happy. Why thrill them when I can mess with them?"

She smiled in great humor at that. "Are you hungry?"

Leon watched her move over towards the cabinets. "You can cook?"

"Raven offers lessons." Cordelia retrieved a frying pan. "I can also sew a little."

He remarked, "You are a credit to your class, Miss Frost."

IIIIIII

Positioned beside the table, Scott waited patiently until the door across the hall finally opened. Out stepped the head of flowing curls and clad in a deep cranberry dress with white turtleneck tucked underneath. Though most colors tended to look the same to the boy due to his ruby quartz, the Christmas lights hanging above gave him the additional light needed to take her in for near full worth.

Smoothing out her long skirt, Becky spotted him. "Scott?"

"Caught me." He quickly stood straight up. "I was playing hide and seek with the guys."

She dipped her head once then performed a quick spin. "Does this look okay?"

"You look beautiful," Scott told her before thought intruded on him.

"Thanks, Scott." Her usual smile returned to her face, but some ill at ease remained in place as well. "I'm just nervous. I haven't been studying Torah forever and ever like other kids there. Or what if there aren't other kids there? What if it's all grownups? And if there are kids, what if we have to be still and quiet at all times like those parties I used to have to go to before I came here?"

"Erik won't be like that," Scott said with certainty. "If he knows you're not happy, he'll get you out of there quick. You don't have to worry about anything."

Becky beamed his way. "Will you walk me down?"

Glad to oblige, Scott offered his arm to her. After she latched on, he began guiding them towards the stairs.

II

Complete amusement filled Charles' chest when the McCoys came through. The ladies wore vibrant red dresses with white trim and the males had on maroon sweaters and dark slacks. Trav also sported brown reindeer ears while Kiki wore tiny elf ears.

"My, my, and where are you all off to?" the Professor asked.

"We're going for a drive, Uncle Charles," Trav told him importantly.

Hank added, "And I'm also under orders to get out of my lab for a while."

Raven grinned, holding onto Kiki. "We're going to take them into town to see all the decorations and look at the displays the mall has out."

"That sounds lovely. You four have fun," Emma wished.

Once they had the children, along with themselves, in their coats, Hank and Raven left out for the garage.

Charles held Emma tighter against him and noted, "Seems everyone is going out this evening. Dear Lord, love," he faced her, "are we nothing more than a pair of fuddy duddies?"

"Yes," Emma replied, settling comfortably beside him, "and I love it. Believe me, I've had more than my fair share of 'fun' in recent years."

"As have I," Charles admitted. "Still, I'd like to know I put a little excitement into your life."

"Sugar," Emma raised in reason, "you've made me the mother of two small boys and have forced me in some way or form to learn things about myself and those I love. And we haven't even been together a year."

"True." Charles gave her a kiss.

No, a little pacing would do them no harm at all.

IIIIIII

After they found parking down the street from the flier's address, the trio of mutants filed out of Erik's sedan. In a matter of seconds, they reached the building of cream and gold coloring. Though it definitely did not prove as large as temples he remembered from boyhood, something in, or possibly outside, of Erik made him step back while the young people approached closer.

Sean glanced back, concern growing on his face. "Uncle Erik?" He walked back to the man. "Are you okay?"

Becky reached the door and looked over her shoulder at the two males speaking. She started to go towards them until a small hand loaded down with various treats poked out from one of the double doors.

"Caaandy," a feminine voice said in what came off as a cheerfully hypnotic tone.

Another, slightly older, added, "There's more if you come insiiiiide."

Smiling, Becky shrugged and started in.

"Rebecca." Erik saw his daughter heading inside and found renewed movement in his feet.

When he and Sean reached the doors, they both spread apart grandly, revealing two small girls and a tall brunette man in a suit.

The man greeted them with, "Welcome to the MT. Westchester," he placed an arm behind his back in a bow, "The Messianic Temple."

Taken aback along with Erik, Sean finally gazed off to the side where a dangling sign depicted the star of David next to a cross.

IIIIIII

While Joey fished around inside the music studio closet where Trick kept the specialty paints for the boy's use, Cody laid out across the piano bench and played a key every so often.

Attention falling to one corner, he noticed Sean's left out guitar. Rolling off the bench, Cody went over and lifted the heavy instrument up to glide fingers over the front. Misjudging his own strength over the rather taut strings, he caused two to split apart.

"Found 'em," Joey announced, small box of paint in his possession. Then he noticed his friend's predicament. "Uh oh."

"Hey, it doesn't look that bad." Cody attempted to put the guitar perfectly back into place. "Maybe Sean won't notice. Or even care."

"I don't know, Cody," Joey said honestly. "Sean's not like Alex. He can get real mean about his stuff sometimes."

"Oh great." Cody went to lean against Trick's desk. "Should've known it wouldn't last long."

"What wouldn't?" Joey wondered.

Cody told him, "It feels like everybody's got an older brother around here but me."

"But you have the best uncle ever," Joey pointed out.

"I know, but you should hear some of the stuff they got into as kids- how Uncle Vic was always there for him."

"We get into stuff together. We're always there for each other," Joey further reasoned.

"Yeah, but you're more like a twin brother," Cody said.

Joey smiled. "Maybe you can just explain it to Seanie. When I'm bad, Alex sometimes punishes me, but he never quits loving me."

"Like anybody could quit lovin' you," Cody dismissed. "Come on." He started to go. "Let's get outta here."

As they went, Joey said, "Wish Becky was here. She always knows what to do."

IIIIIII

A little more than three dozen people gathered inside the Temple, most swarming around the two tables loaded down with food. Becky and the two girls walked ahead, snacking on candy. Sean went behind them, nibbling on a few pieces of his own. Erik and the other gentlemen, who had introduced himself as Rabbi Chad Braunstein, brought up the rear.

"I'm Megan," the older girl with light brown hair introduced herself, "and this is my sister, Rachel."

The younger one with hair of chestnut brown asked, "What's your name?"

"Rebecca Lehnsherr," the curly headed one replied, "but everyone calls me Becky."

A pleasant faced woman with wavy blonde hair approached them from the other end of the building. "Who do we have here?" She held a hand out. "Welcome."

Sean shook with her. "Hello, ma'am. I'm Sean Cassidy."

"Sylvia Braunstein," she returned.

"Mama," Megan chimed up, "can we show Becky the kids room?"

"Go right ahead," the woman granted.

Once Becky received Erik's consenting nod, she followed after the other girls.

"And sweetheart," Sylvia spoke to Sean again, "this is a social so don't be shy. Help yourself to as much as you want to eat."

"Thank you," Sean smiled and headed for the tables.

Erik quipped, "I think you just made a friend for life."

"Erik," the Rabbi spoke grandly, "it's my pleasure to introduce my wife."

Erik shared a handshake with her then fully took in the two. They reminded him nothing of the elders that ran his former temple back in Poland. His gaze went to the large menorah situated on top of the grand piano as well as the ten foot at least Christmas tree in the far back near the choir stand.

"So," Erik spoke, trying to get a grasp on things, "Messianic?"

"Yes, Erik, you've caught us," Chad said guiltily. "We fully confess to being absolute weirdoes. Granted, that was long before we founded any of this."

"Chad," Sylvia batted at his arm lightly then explained to Erik, "we're part of a relatively new movement. The messianic goal is essentially to combine the old with the new."

Chad said, "As Dr. King stated in his speech, the time has come for Jew and Gentile to join together."

Erik did not react at first. Of all of the things he'd expected the gathering to bring him, this he had not seen coming.

"How did you learn about us, Erik?" Sylvia asked him.

The man left his day to reply, "A little boy. He handed me a flier. Simply walked upon me out of the blue."

"Oh we know who you're talking about." Chad shared a knowing look with his wife then called over, "Josh!"

The young one with a basket in his possession approached promptly. "Yes, Papa?" He then noticed the other man with them and his lips turned upward happily. "It's you."

"You remember me?" Erik reacted.

Josh took something from the basket and extended it. "Thank you for joining us."

Accepting the silk garment, Erik, with a hand somewhat shaky, placed the yamaka on top of his head.

II

As the girls walked along, Becky noticed their appearances. They wore regular skirts and sweaters, nothing over the top. Also to her surprise, they moved excitedly and with a skip to their steps.

Leading the way inside the colorful room, Megan said, "This is where we go for temple service. It's just for us kids."

Becky gazed around the space with enthusiasm. They had several chairs and tables, a toy chest, a stack of faith based board games, different posters such as "Biblical Characters: A-Z" on the walls, and even a television set pushed up against one corner.

"This is great," Becky smiled.

Megan said, "We meet in here on Friday while Papa leads the grownups. Then later we come together for worshipping."

"Who leads the kids?" Becky wondered.

"Our big brother Ben," Megan answered. "It's really great. Sometimes we read or watch specials on TV."

Rachel disappeared behind a short booth. "Sometimes we do puppet shows." She poked her hands up, one displaying a man with a staff and the other a yapping dog talking to each other. "You hurry up and get on the Ark. We have a schedule to keep you know."

Megan and Becky laughed at the antics.

"She's eight," Megan said. "I'm eleven."

Becky looked at her. "So am I."

Rachel came back around, seating herself backwards in a chair. "How come your mama's not with you?"

Becky immediately answered, "I don't have one."

"That's okay." A teenage boy with short brown hair and a yamaka present walked in. "I used to be able to say the same thing. I'm Ben, by the way."

"I'm Becky," she smiled at him then told the room, "And actually, my papa adopted me."

"Really?" Megan gaped at her in astonishment. "Mine adopted me, too."

"He did?" Becky responded in equal shock.

"Rach here is our only lucky surprise." Ben went over to give his youngest sister a tickle. "So Becky, we're all glad you came out tonight. I host an open class on the Sabbath. We talk about things, ask questions. I'd love to have you."

Megan encouraged, "You have to come."

Becky started to speak until Josh poked his head inside. "Everything okay?"

"Everything's great," Ben told him. "I'm going to walk around a little. Stay with the ladies a sec, okay?"

Josh nodded and entered as his brother exited. "Hello…" He waved meekly at Becky.

She only smiled at him. "I'm Becky. What's your name?"

"Josh," Rachel answered for him. "Our other big brother."

Josh handed the new face a wrapped chocolate.

Becky took it as though it were the key to a magical city.

II

"Do you play?"

Sean looked up from gliding his finger across a drum set when another boy walked in. "Should I not be in here?"

He sat beside him. "Depends on how lousy you play."

"Oh I don't," Sean said of the drums. "Just having a mental rock star moment. I play guitar- well, I'm learning. And sing- some."

"Cool. Would you be interested in joining choir?"

Sean shook his head. "I probably shouldn't try that one. I'm not even Jewish."

He carefully corrected, "You mean you don't practice Judaism. Because it is possible to be of Jewish blood without being of the faith."

"Wow, that's yards from my family," Sean said. "Born into a Catholic family, that's automatically what you are."

"So I take it you're adopted, too." At the strange look given him, he introduced, "I'm Ben. I was just in there talking to my sisters and Becky."

"Oh," Sean nodded. "I'm Sean and yeah, sort of. See, I attend this school for, um, gifted people but we're not your traditional setup. We're a small place and we're all like a family. Everyone pulls their weight in some way, but I tend to fall kind of short next to everyone else."

"Adults always giving you a hard time about it?" Ben asked.

"Not really," Sean admitted. "It's just the way I feel a lot of the time."

Ben then put forth, "Do you remember the Doubting Thomas?"

"Yep. That was the disciple that couldn't believe Jesus had come back even when he saw Him for himself, right?"

"Right," Ben confirmed. "See, before that Thomas went on this major rant about how Jesus must not really care about him because He revealed Himself to everyone but him. He eventually snapped out of it, but no one ever downplayed Thomas' role but himself." While Sean stared ahead, he posed a question. "So you're apparently Catholic and since you had no idea what kind of temple we really are, what made you come here tonight?"

"I wanted to support my uncle." Sean caught a look from the other teen. "Ah, yeah… right."

II

Before long, Erik found himself circled by a group of older women who all insisted he try whatever platter they themselves had brought in to share. Erik did not mind indulging them and his taste buds in the process. Many of the recipes were those that triggered the fondest of memories from his childhood.

"So thin," one of them determined. "You must work too hard."

"Doesn't your wife take care of you at all?"

The moment the words, "I'm not married," left his lips, Erik felt the urge to kick himself hard.

They all began to chatter about potential prospects right off the top of their heads.

"Ladies," Chad stepped over, "do not frighten our new members. That's my job." As they laughed, he gently led Erik away and up to the balcony.

"I thank you," Erik said.

"Trust me," Chad sat in a chair. "I've been there myself."

Erik gazed out over the congregation. "So every single one of you has found the Messiah in the Christ child?"

Chad leaned back comfortably. "I know that tone. The "your brain has finally been washed beyond repair" reaction."

Erik turned to look at him. "I'm only curious."

"The Christ child was Jewish, as were His disciples. That's something Jew and Gentile alike often forget." Chad stood, going to look over the balcony as well. "But He came here for us. We were going to be a beacon to all people. While many of us alive today have come to accept Him, other still have their reasons to continue waiting. The happenings not long ago in Europe, years of prosecution and blame for the crucifixion." He looked at Erik. "But are we truly the only victims here? Many members of my congregation are greeted in disdain from their own families for choosing to come here. Don't get me started with the reactions toward my wife."

This Erik found puzzling. "Your wife?"

"That's right, Erik. I fell in love with a shiksa," Chad stated.

"I've been there," Erik said in turn.

"Actually, we met each other back in Queens," the Rabbi recalled. "At a church's food bank- we were both halfway to homeless at the time, each with children who needed to be fed, and with less faith than we had money in our pockets."

Erik looked further surprised. "Your family is interblended."

Chad nodded. "I got it easier, though. My wife left me with one. Her husband abandoned her with two small babes and no source of income. If you'd told me then that I'd end up studying to become a rabbi…" Erik remained quiet, listening to him. "I'm a blessed man, Erik. An undeserving one at that. Here, I want my people to be able to come and worship together. I want the children to feel comfortable and unafraid to have a voice."

"You've certainly done well for that," Erik commented. "Your little boy speaks Yiddish better than some men."

"Josh threw himself into learning about my side of the family."

Erik nodded. "Sounds like my daughter."

"He carries his faith prouder than anyone else his age I've seen. He wears his yamaka and carries his Bible with him everywhere. We've only been here for a few months and it's been the hardest on him to make friends. It doesn't bother him terribly, though, because he's already figured out that there's only one who will always be his friend."

"I'd say he's far ahead," Erik said.

"Erik, I'm not expecting the world from you in one night." Chad faced him. "Whether it's this week, next month, next year- I hope you can eventually find your place here."

Erik looked down in time to see Becky passing through with Josh and the girls in tow. A slow smile came to his lips.

IIIIIII

Jingle Bell Rock blasting from the small radio, the four apron adorned females moved about the Xavier kitchen in pure glee.

"Bombs away!" Maya signaled, flinging down a bag of chocolate chips from a cupboard.

"Excellence." Holly caught them, tore of the top, and started pouring them into the big red bowl.

"Irish green, Auntie," said Jasmine, adding in the necessary food coloring.

A giddy Cordelia found the walnuts and practically mixed in the entire package. "These are an aphrodisiac."

"Whoa, whoa, whoa," Alex stepped into the doorway. "Ladies, there has been a serious noise complaint so I am going to need you to crank up the music to drown them all out."

"Gladly." Jasmine switched the dial up a few more decibels.

Fingerful of dough ready, Holly maneuvered over to Alex. "Eat up."

"Raw dough makes you sick," he feigned protest.

"Chocolate is good for the heart," she countered.

"So are you," he said, licking her fingertip clean.

Seeing them, Jasmine returned to her cookie sheet. She added A and H on top of one circle of dough right beside F and J, creating red hearts around both cookies.

IIIIIII

Changed from his suit and into more comfortable night attire, Erik took a moment to leave his acquired leaflets on his desk before making his way downstairs. The moment he entered the parlor, Charles nearly leapt up with sheer excitement.

"Oh brother, you're back. How was it? Were people nice? Tell me everything."

Erik's voice turned to that of an ecstatic teenager. "Well, I caught Brad giving Jennifer the eye. Oh my God, I think there's something happening there."

Charles narrowed his eyes. "You're only condescending yourself at the moment I'll have you know."

Erik patted his cheek then went to flop over into his chess chair. "Curse you and your wild ideas, Xavier."

The telepath frown and knelt at the older man's seat. "Was it really that awful?"

"No, far worse than anything I anticipated. I… enjoyed myself thoroughly." He shot Charles a firm look. "Not a single syllable, Lab Rat."

With a shrug, Charles got up to arrange the chess set and a hum soon began in his throat. At the pillow Erik flung at him, he merely nonchalantly ducked out of the way and continued with the merry sound.

IIIIIII

Unprepared for the small pajama clad body to jump at him, Sean managed to both catch him and not fall over.

"Yeesh, Code Man." Sean spun with him. "You miss me that much?"

"Yep." Cody then suggested, "Let's go in the living room and make the hugest fort in the world. Ooh, and Maya and the girls baked cookies. She saved you some."

"Sounds great," Sean said. "Let me just grab my guitar real quick. I forgot to put it back in my room."

Cody quickly suggested, "Do it later."

"I don't want to forget again and I need to practice before bed."

"But you can't…"

Sean's eyebrow went up. "Why?"

"'Cause… 'cause I tried playin' it earlier and messed it up," the boy confessed sadly. "I didn't mean to, Sean."

"What? Oh boy…" Sean carried him into the music studio and put him down long enough to go over and inspect his guitar.

"I'm real sorry, Sean," Cody tried to apologize.

Checking the instrument over, Sean sighed in relief. "It's just a couple popped strings." He looked over at him. "I used to do this all the time. All I need to do is get two more out of the pack to replace them."

Cody regarded him cautiously. "So you're not mad?"

Sean scooted across the floor and over to ruffle his hair. "Nope."

"So… do you still wanna be my brother?"

"You out of your mind? Of course I do. If I disowned a little brother every time he made me mad, Frank and me would never talk to each other. Don't get me started with Tommy back home."

It was Cody's turn to look relieved. "Great." He moved over onto the teen's lap. "So let's go play."

"Wait a sec, pal," Sean wound tight arms around him, "just 'cause I still love you doesn't mean you're off the hook. I've told you before not to fool around with my guitar, haven't I?"

Cody sighed deeply. "Yep. Ya have."

"Sorry, Code Man, but since your folks are still out looks like I'm gonna have to give you a BBS. Unless you want me to go find your uncle."

"No," Cody shook his head hard. Though Victor would probably aim for his hands, he knew he would feel the sting for a while. "It was your stuff I messed with, Seanie."

"Yeah, but trust me, this won't be any fun for me. Okay," Sean draped him over his lap, "let's get this over with so we can have some real fun."

Cody nodded. "'Kay…"

Bring his hand up, Sean gave him four fast slaps over his pajama bottoms, only to unleash a monumental yelp from the little boy. His own strength startled Sean for a moment and he gave him another, slightly less firm, slap. By the sixth, Cody began to cry.

Unable to do anymore, Sean picked him up into a strong hug. "Aw Cody, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to hurt you that bad." He rubbed his back. "You okay?"

Cody settled down into sniffles. "Mmhmm. I'm sorry, Seanie…"

"Don't worry about it anymore." Sean stood with him. "Let's go see where Maya hid those cookies, okay?"

Cody nodded against him.

As he left out safely in the teen's clutch, a smirk spread across the young boy's face.

IIIIIII

Screeching to a halt the minute he came into his bedroom, Alex stopped to simply stare at the figure laid out across his bed.

"Okay, this time is just unfair and you know it."

There Holly laid in her cheerleading attire. "I had to do something to make up for the nurse's outfit."

"You are bad," he declared, going to lay down beside her.

Holly looked down at him, pushing a few locks of red behind one ear. "Let me see."

He opened one eye to see her. "My power or…"

She tugged on his shirt. "I want to see what they did to you."

Sitting up, Alex shook his head. "It's mostly healed now. Besides, you shouldn't have to look at that."

Holly danced fingers across his shoulders until she could stroke his hair. "I want to. Please, stud?"

Letting off a small sigh, Alex removed his hands and turned a little for her to take in his back.

Holly touched a careful hand to the remaining bruises and scrapes left there. Mere marks that sought to blemish the incredible specimen before her. Leaning lips forward, she started to leave gentle kisses on each one.

Alex opened his mouth but no words came out; only muted thrilled utterances as she worked.

Eventually, she maneuvered over to shut and kiss his mouth. Alex hugged her close and laid her out over his mattress, kissing her further.

Soon enough, they grudgingly pulled away.

"This part is too hard," Alex said.

"My niece might come looking for me," Holly brought up.

"Or one of my brothers." Alex got up from her.

"You are so strong." Holly placed a hand against his left jaw. "So wonderful. You made it, stud. Just like you do everything. Don't let this experience bend or set you back for a moment."

Alex kissed her palm as she stood from him. "Holly? You know that- that this, whatever it is, it means more to me than just the obvious. You got to know that, babe."

She smiled, "Why do you think I come back?" then left the room.

IIIIIII

Not looking up from the writing at her desk when she heard the knock, Emma simply invited, "Come in."

A somewhat curious Leon stepped in. "Did you know who it was?"

"Even telepaths like a little mystery, sweetheart." Emma put her pen down to offer him full attention. "Are you alright?"

"Cordelia and I were talking earlier," Leon began. "She told me you stopped being there for her for a while."

"That I did," Emma responded evenly.

"She said it all started because you had other students. That you really cared about. But you lost them."

Her eyes glinted. "And myself in the process."

Leon asked her, "How did you come back from the anger and the hardness? Was it all the Professor?"

"No," the woman answered. "Believing myself to be in love is what caused most of the trouble in my life. Despite my feelings for Charles, I needed something else as well. When Rebecca displayed her love for me even after what she'd gone through then later for Joey to do the same, I knew I finally had somewhere I belonged."

Leon nodded then went on with, "Is your mutation exactly like the Professor's? He was able to soothe me to sleep one night; make me let go of dormant feelings that caused my crying spells."

"Yes. Though I'm not quite as powerful as I once was, I do have that ability."

"I still remember the reactions at the assembly," Leon recollected. "People were crying over Kennedy, many were outraged to the point of demanding violence. But all I did was sit there, intrigued at best; like I was watching a nature special. That's how I feel all the time. Empty. Until last week happened. Alex being alive or dead- it actually made a difference to me. He's my best friend. There's no way I should be astounded by that."

Emma stood, a hand going to his shoulder. "Honey?"

Leon swallowed. "Can you please help me, Miss Frost? I don't want to spend the rest of my life as a stone."

IIIIIII

X-Men gathered around the darkened living room, Alex, Frank, and Becky stood near to the coffee table. At last, Erik came through, using his magnetism to carry in the candelabra. Menorah carefully in place, the metal wielder swiped one match from the book he had with him. Once he had the helper lit, he held the candle out to Frank.

Smiling, Frank lit the first two before passing it on to Becky.

The girl added fire to her pair, but paused in place when Erik held out a hand, preventing her from giving it to Alex.

"Leon," Erik petitioned, clearly startling the newcomer, "would you do me the honor of lighting the next two candles?"

"Yes- yes, sir." Leon stepped forward and accepted the helper from the beaming young telepath.

With as much delicacy as he could, he ignited the two next to Becky's.

"Now Alex," she whispered to him.

Turning to his friend, Leon handed over the helper. In turn, Alex gave him a fond pat to one shoulder before completing the job.

Getting the helper back, Erik held it while he addressed the others. "Last year on this, the final night of Hanukah, I made wishes for every member of my household at the time. Those wishes bore richer fruit than I could have imagined. The biggest proof of that are those of you who stand here with us now but not before. This year has taught me something vital. Faith by its definition can never abandon us. Only we can abandon it. I thank you all," he looked to the four youngsters near him, "and certainly my children for sharing in mine. Now," he faced the others again, "let us feast until combustion."

IIIIIII

"Yes!" Joey threw his hands up when the dradle spinner came down. "I win again."

Scott looked on in confusion. "How do you play this again?"

Frank came over to join them. "Let a pro show you how it's done."

Charles looked away from speaking with Hank and Raven at Trick slipping away. "Where are you off to, mate?"

"Trouble at the club," Trick griped, getting into his coat. "Naturally. I'll be back as soon as I can."

Charles nodded at him and the Irish man took his leave. The Professor's gaze then fell on the Christmas tree, seeing the tiny penguin dangling from one branch.

"Yeah, Jews can get it in," Logan took a long swig of his beer, "ya know I went with one of their women before. Long time ago."

"Oh really?" Kayla responded from where she sat on the arm of his chair.

"That's right," said Alex with a smirk. "Moses did have a sister, didn't he?"

The others laughed and Logan flung his bottle cap at the blonde. "Wise guy."

Leon made his way over to Erik. "Sir? I wanted to say thank you for including me. I know how important such a tradition is."

"Thank you for accepting," Erik placed an arm around him, "boychick."

"Frank?" Scott snapped his fingers in front of the distracted eyes. "Hey, it's your turn."

"…Right." Looking away from the man and teen, Frank, now half-heartedly, continued the game.

Winding arms around one of Alex's, Holly stated importantly, "Are you aware that the Cheshire Cat has come to visit us?"

"What?" The confused male followed her out front. "Geez, it's freezing."

"Look." Holly pointed up at the quarter moon. "He's smiling."

"You're crazy. And I'm cold." He started to go in.

"Aw, and here I was going to warm you myself," Holly pouted after him.

Getting the idea, Alex returned to her and all traces of cold faded away when their lips met.

A pair of feet stepped up on them then. "Time really does heal all wounds."

Looking up, Alex's countenance turned stunned and angered. "What are you doing here?"

Kerstin told him, "I was hoping we could finally talk. But I see you're busy."

Holly said, "I should leave you two alone."

"No." Alex faced her. "You don't have to go anywhere." He walked out to Kerstin. "Are you completely out of your mind? This is the last night of Hanukah." He jabbed a finger towards the house. "My entire family is in there. And you have the nerve to show up like this?"

"Stupid me I guess."

Alex grabbed her by the arm before she could storm off. "No. No!" he reiterated stronger. "You do not get to play the victim card here. You lied to me every single day we were together. My little brother Scott's been having nightmares. What if he'd been with us that night? What if they'd taken Sean, too?"

Kerstin insisted, "I tried to tell you our going out was a bad idea. You pursued me, remember?"

"You knew about my dad's past!" Alex spat. "You knew and you let us keep going. All you had to do was explain and I would have backed off."

"I am not my parents!" she screamed at him. "Nothing they did has anything to do with me. My mother lied to me about who my father was. I feel like there's no one I can really trust. You think that's easy for me to explain to anyone?"

"I get that, okay? And if it had been me they personally wronged, okay whatever. But people like that hurt my dad and destroyed his family. Maybe family means squat to you but it is everything to me. Look, I'm glad you're okay, but don't come here again." He started back towards Holly.

Kerstin stepped up one pace. "Alex, I wish I could..."

"Just forget it. It's over," he looked back at her for a moment, "Greta."

Hitching a breath, Kerstin inched back.

Alex went inside. Glancing back at the other girl with compassion present in her eyes, Holly shut the door after them.

IIIIIII

Moving through the dim hallways of the mental facility, Trick followed the pair of guards until they arrived inside one well lit room with all white walls. There they left him. Eyeing the one dressed in ivory garments, Trick sat across the table from him.

Tobias smiled over at him. "So, you're the one the good captain arranged for me to see. Sorry to disappoint, but the face doesn't ring a bell."

"You were busy running at the time," Trick informed him. "I'm the one who stopped your boy from violating that girl."

"Ah, yes," Tobias understood now. "One of the merry mutants. It's so simple to defend the prettiest face in the room, isn't it?"

"Kerstin is not a nazi," Trick emphasized.

"Not yet, but she will be or a force much harsher," Tobias stated simply. "That's the way it goes. I couldn't escape my mother's bloodline and neither will she. Just give it a matter of time." He observed the young man coughing into his fist. "A bit under the weather?"

"Forget it," Trick dismissed. "I still don't see the reason in condemning a girl to rape for crimes she has not yet committed. Is that justice to you?"

"Don't be too hard on Javitz." Tobias folded arms behind his head. "Can you imagine it? Growing up with his disfigurements? The horrible treatment he had to undergo because of it. Naturally, one who looks like you will never know the deep cruelty to be found inside a woman. The same is true for Decay. Many decades ago, he made one mistake with his mutation. It cost him everything. Now, he's hardened to the world, too."

"Bully hunters," Trick surmised. "That's how you see yourselves, isn't it? Some sort of heroes?"

"No," Tobias replied matter-of-factly. "Heroes receive praise once in a while." He looked at him closely. "Why did you come here? With your powers you could easily take on any number of these guards. Come seeking revenge for the fair maiden?"

Trick shook his head slowly. "There really is nothing inside you, is there? This is all you live for. A vendetta you will take right to your grave."

"Right into the fire," Tobias said resolutely.

Trick had a response but a sudden sneeze silenced him.

"You should boil steam to loosen that mucus." Trick gazed over at the older man. "That's what I used to do for my little boy. He used to stay so sick it brought him to tears. How he cried…"

Staring at him for a long moment, Trick finally beseeched, "Guard!"

They came in to escort him out. As he left, Trick shared one last look with Tobias. The moment he made it out into the hall, the young man steadied himself against a wall until he could resume proper breathing.